Business Loan for Veterans: Smart Funding Strategies Built for Those Who Served

Securing a business loan for veterans in 2025 isn’t about jumping through hoops — it’s about leveraging the tools already built for you. Whether you’re a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) or just starting out with support from your local Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC), there’s a clear path forward. From low-fee SBA 7(a) Veterans Advantage Loans to revenue-based options that ignore credit scores, veteran entrepreneurs now have access to mission-ready capital backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). You’ve already proven you can lead—now it’s time to fund that next mission.

Key Highlights:

• SBA loans for veterans offer reduced fees and higher approval odds
• Fast-track funding like the SBA Express Loan delivers capital in under 72 hours
• Veteran-led startups can access angel investor networks like Hivers & Strivers
• Revenue-based loans provide flexible financing for vets with limited credit history

What types of business loans are available to veterans?

Choosing the right business loan is essential for any company. However, veteran-owned businesses have several advantages when it comes to lending. For starters, let’s clear up what a VA loan is, it is a direct loan from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), typically for mortgages but often confused with VA Business Loans. VA Business Loans are generally offered by the SBA and often come with perks over civilian programs. SBA interest rates are usually lower than those for other loans, making it an affordable option and the gold standard. Additionally, pre-qualifying with the help of veteran-friendly lenders can help you get the best options for your company.

SBA 7(a) Veterans Advantage Loan

Best for: Veterans seeking long-term capital with lower fees

The SBA 7(a) Veterans Advantage Loan is one of the most powerful tools for veteran entrepreneurs in 2025. With funding amounts up to $5 million, this loan is ideal for acquiring a business, expanding operations, or purchasing equipment. Veteran-owned businesses benefit from reduced guarantee fees, which lowers the overall cost of borrowing. If you’re a veteran with strong credit and a well-developed business plan, this should be at the top of your list.

💡 Pro Tip: Great for those with strong credit and a solid business plan. Partner with a local SBA lender to streamline your application.
🔗 Learn more about SBA Loans at SBA website

SBA Express Loan (Veteran-Focused Fast Track)

Best for: Veterans needing fast approval (24–72 hours)

Speed matters, especially when opportunity knocks. The SBA Express Loan program provides up to $500,000 with a significantly faster approval process. The SBA guarantees 50% of the loan, which reduces risk for lenders and speeds up funding. Some participating lenders even waive upfront fees for veterans. When paired with coaching from a Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC), veterans can expedite funding while getting expert guidance.

💡 Pro Tip: Pair with local VBOC support to strengthen your application and move through the fast-track pipeline efficiently.
🔗 Find your nearest VBOC

Hivers & Strivers Angel Fund

Best for: Veteran startups, especially service academy grads

Looking for equity-based funding instead of debt? The Hivers & Strivers Angel Fund specializes in investing in veteran-led startups, particularly those founded by service academy graduates. These angel investors not only inject capital, but also bring mentorship, strategic advice, and access to exclusive networks. This is ideal for tech startups or scalable ventures that can show growth potential.

💡 Pro Tip: Perfect for scalable, tech-forward business models looking for strategic mentorship and networking.
🔗 Explore Hivers & Strivers

StreetShares Veteran Business Term Loans & Lines of Credit

Best for: Veteran-owned small businesses with stable revenue

StreetShares, founded by veterans, offers loans and lines of credit from $5,000 to $250,000. These loans are great for business owners with at least 12 months of consistent revenue and a solid cash flow profile. Their platform is straightforward, rates are competitive, and they understand the unique challenges veteran-owned businesses face.

💡 Pro Tip: Very veteran-friendly—founded by vets, for vets. Ideal for ongoing capital needs and growth plans.

AMP Advance Revenue-Based Financing for Veterans

Best for: Veterans needing quick funding with flexible payment options.

For veterans who may not meet traditional credit requirements, AMP Advance offers a flexible revenue-based funding option. These loans are approved based on your monthly revenue, not your credit score. Funding is often available the same day. They’re especially useful for working capital, purchasing inventory, or making short-term expansions.

💡 Pro Tip: Great alternative if banks say no—especially for newer or lower-credit business owners looking for flexible terms.

Explore AMP Advance’s Business Loan Programs.

💡 Pro Tip: Use this grid as a quick reference when deciding which loan aligns with your goals and timeline.

Veteran Business Resources & Support Organizations

1. SBA Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC)
Provides training, mentoring, and counseling specifically for veteran entrepreneurs.
🔗 Find your VBOC 

2. SCORE – Veteran Fast Launch Initiative
Free mentoring and tools to help veterans start and grow businesses. Great for building your business plan or marketing strategy.
🔗 Visit SCORE.org

3. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
While the VA doesn’t directly offer business loans, they provide small business support through their Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU).
🔗 Explore VA OSDBU Programs 

4. Boots to Business Program
An SBA-funded program that introduces service members and spouses to business ownership basics during their transition process.
🔗 Visit Boots to Business

5. VetFran (Veterans and Franchising Initiative)
Connects veterans to franchise opportunities with discounted fees and supportive onboarding for veteran owners.
🔗 Explore VetFran